Oct
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Skincare jars are often too pretty – or too sturdy – to toss in the recycling bin. And even when we do recycle, most glass or plastic containers end up in landfills anyway. According to the EPA, only about 9% of plastic waste in the U.S. is actually recycled. That stat alone should make anyone rethink what happens to their empty moisturizer pots.
But here’s the good news: with a little creativity and some basic cleaning, those tiny jars can serve a new purpose. Whether you’re into DIY beauty, minimalism, sustainability, or just hate waste, giving your skincare jars a second life can be oddly satisfying.
Let’s talk about how to clean them properly and what you can turn them into – without needing a glue gun or hours of free time.
What’s the Best Way to Clean Old Skincare Jars?
Before you reuse anything, get rid of every trace of the original product. That’s not just about looks – leftover oils, creams, or actives can spoil or grow bacteria.
Here’s how to do it right:
Start by scraping out the remaining product with a spatula or old spoon. Then soak the jar in hot water with dish soap. Let it sit for 10–15 minutes to loosen up any gunk.
Once it’s soaked, wash it thoroughly. For greasy products like balms or night creams, you might need to use a bit of rubbing alcohol or vinegar to cut the residue. If the container is glass, run it through the dishwasher afterward. For plastic, handwashing is safer to avoid warping.
And don’t forget the lid. Product buildup often hides in the threads or liner. Use a small brush or toothbrush to scrub those spots.
If the label is still stuck on and you want a clean surface, soak it in warm soapy water and peel it off. Goo Gone or olive oil can help lift stubborn adhesive.
Once clean and dry, you’re ready to repurpose.
What Can You Actually Do with Those Empty Jars?
Plenty. Here are ideas that range from practical to creative – and none of them require power tools or craft-level talent.
Can You Turn Them Into Travel Containers?
Absolutely. Small skincare jars are perfect for packing a few days’ worth of moisturizer, cleanser, or even hair products. Instead of lugging full-sized bottles, scoop a little into your cleaned jar for trips.
If you’re decanting something liquidy like toner, opt for screw-top jars that don’t leak. Label each container clearly using masking tape or waterproof stickers.
Bonus: If TSA ever questions you, it’s easy to prove your liquids are under the limit.
Could They Work for DIY Lip Balms or Scrubs?
They’re ideal for small-batch DIY beauty. Try mixing a simple lip balm with beeswax, coconut oil, and a few drops of peppermint or vanilla oil. Pour it into a mini jar and let it set.
Want a natural exfoliator? Combine brown sugar and olive oil or honey for a quick scrub. Store it in a repurposed jar and use within a few weeks.
Jars with wider mouths work better for scooping out thicker products. Just make sure everything’s clean and dry before you pour anything in.
What About Making a Mini First Aid Kit or Emergency Stash?
Think outside the bathroom. A sturdy little jar can be turned into a pocket-sized first aid kit with band-aids, alcohol wipes, and mini antibiotic packets. It’s handy for your bag, desk drawer, or glove compartment.
Or make an “emergency” jar with hair ties, safety pins, bobby pins, and ibuprofen – basically, anything you always need but never seem to have on hand.
Can They Organize Small Items at Home?
Yes, especially if you’re trying to tidy up drawers, bags, or workspaces. Use jars to corral:
- Earrings and rings
- Binders clips or pushpins
- Sewing needles or buttons
- Spices or loose-leaf teas (for food-safe jars)
- Vitamins or supplements (only if you’re using them right away)
Group similar items in matching jars and label them. If you’re visually driven, arranging them on a tray or shelf looks neat and intentional.
Can You Turn Skincare Jars Into Candle Holders?
If you’re working with heat-safe glass jars, you can make your own candles at home. Melt soy wax, add a wick and fragrance oil, and pour it into your clean jar. Let it cure for a day or two.
The result? A simple, chic candle that smells like your favorite blend of lavender and lemon or sandalwood and sage.
Stick to jars with thick glass and no plastic linings. Those won’t handle heat well.
Are There Any Ways to Reuse Them in the Kitchen?
Food-grade glass jars (check for any symbols or manufacturer guidance) can safely store spices, dried herbs, matcha powder, or homemade salad dressing.
They’re also great for individual servings of dips or overnight oats. Just be cautious if the original jar had strong fragrance or essential oils – those can linger even after cleaning.
If in doubt, don’t use them for food.
What About DIY Gifts or Party Favors?
If you have a stash of identical jars, they make excellent packaging for homemade gifts. Try:
- Bath salts with Epsom salt and essential oils
- Sugar scrubs or whipped body butters
- A trio of spice blends for cooking fans
- Mini cookie or brownie mix layered in the jar
Add a handwritten label or bit of twine around the top. It feels thoughtful, not mass-produced.
Can Kids Use Them for Crafts or Storage?
Yes – but choose plastic jars if they’re for young children. Kids can use them to store tiny toys, glitter, or beads. You can also let them decorate the jars with paint, stickers, or markers.
With supervision, they can mix their own DIY playdough, slime, or sensory beads and store them in the containers too.
How Can I Make Them Look Better?
If the label peeled poorly or the lid’s scratched, a quick makeover can help. Here are simple upgrades:
- Paint the lid with chalkboard paint to write what’s inside.
- Use washi tape to wrap the lid or base for a clean pattern.
- Glue a small knob or decorative bead on the lid to mimic luxury packaging.
- Add waterproof labels or vinyl decals for a modern look.
You don’t need to go over the top – even minimal changes can make reused jars feel new.
How Do I Know Which Jars Are Worth Keeping?
Not all jars are created equal. Some aren’t safe for food, heat, or reuse at all.
Here’s a quick cheat sheet:
Keep These:
- Thick glass jars with tight lids
- Small wide-mouthed jars (great for scooping)
- Plastic jars with a recycle code #1 or #2 (generally safer plastics)
Skip These:
- Jars that smell strongly of perfume, even after washing
- Containers with pumps (harder to clean and reuse)
- Thin plastic jars that warp with hot water
If you’re unsure, set it aside for non-food use – like holding jewelry or making a simple air freshener (just baking soda + essential oil inside).
Are There Eco-Conscious Brands That Support Reuse?
Some skincare brands are leaning into sustainability by designing jars meant for refills or long-term reuse.
Brands like Kjaer Weis, Tata Harper, and Plaine Products offer refillable packaging. Others, like Lush, encourage customers to return empty containers in exchange for discounts or free products.
If your skincare routine generates a lot of waste, looking for brands with take-back programs or compostable packaging can help reduce the need for constant repurposing.
But when you already have a bathroom drawer full of empties, reuse is often the fastest solution.
What If I Just Don’t Want to DIY?
That’s okay too. If repurposing skincare jars isn’t your thing, you still have options.
Look for local recycling centers that accept cosmetics containers (many don’t through curbside). Programs like TerraCycle offer beauty-specific recycling initiatives through partnerships with brands like Garnier and Burt’s Bees.
Some stores, including Nordstrom and Credo Beauty, have drop-off bins for hard-to-recycle beauty packaging.
The key is not throwing it into the trash if there’s a better alternative.
How Many Jars Should I Save?
It’s easy to go overboard. Suddenly, you’re hoarding empties like a dragon guarding glass treasure. A good rule: if you haven’t reused it within 2 months, let it go.
Keep only the ones that are easy to clean, still in good shape, and match your storage or DIY habits. Everything else can be donated, recycled properly, or repurposed one final time as a tiny plant pot before it exits your space.
FAQs
Can you reuse skincare jars for other skincare products?
Yes, as long as they are thoroughly cleaned and sanitized. Avoid mixing old and new product contents. Always label the new contents clearly to avoid confusion or contamination.
What’s the safest way to sanitize a jar for reuse?
Wash with soap and hot water, then rinse with rubbing alcohol or place in boiling water (for heat-safe glass only). Let it air dry fully.
Are plastic skincare jars safe for food storage?
Not usually. Unless they’re labeled as food-grade or BPA-free, it’s better to use them for non-edible purposes like crafts or storage.
Can I compost skincare jars?
Only if they’re made from biodegradable materials like bamboo or cardboard. Most plastic and glass jars aren’t compostable.
What’s the best use for very tiny jars?
Try storing stud earrings, medication, spices, or creating single-use DIY treatments like lip masks or spot treatments.
Is it worth investing in reusable jars instead of always buying skincare in new packaging?
It can be, especially if you DIY or buy refill pouches. Some brands also sell concentrated versions of their products to use with your existing containers.
